What’s in your trapping kit?

Beginning TNR doesn’t have to include purchasing a bunch of supplies, you probably already have almost everything you need! Traps are the biggest investment when beginning TNR and that is why Full Circle Cats has a free lending library of traps, trapping equipment, and accessories.

If you are expanding your TNR work or want to invest in your own equipment this guide will discuss the various types of traps, where to buy them and the additional items you need to be successful.

Traps

Spring Trap

    • Easy to find similar traps at hardware stores and online

    • Relatively inexpensive though the price varies by manufacturer and materials

    • Different styles either come with or without a backdoor

    • Works with drop trap if back door equipped

    • Can be very loud as the door comes down with considerable force

    • Not great for kittens as it takes more weight on the trigger plate to release door

    • Come in different sizes and varieties so it can be overwhelming when purchasing for the first time

    • Some don't have a backdoors which makes it hard to bait the trap

Gravity Trap

    • Quieter than spring traps so it may be better for kittens or easily spooked cats

    • Extra sensitive for smaller cats and kittens

    • More compact than spring trap so may fit in smaller vehicles easier

    • Can't lose any pieces as they are all attached

    • Comes in a "fat cat" variety which is useful for larger cats, pregnant cats, and trap shy cats

    • Easy to set off accidentally

    • Back door does not fully come off and therefore this trap is not compatible with many accessories

    • Requires two hands to set

    • Backdoor is loose and must be secured immediately

Neighborhood Cats Trap

    • Co-designed and endorsed by Neighborhood Cats

    • Closes with gravity making it quieter than a spring trap

    • Rings on front door open simultaneously

    • Extra-large trip plate to prevent cats from stepping over

    • Can only. be purchased online via Tomahawk's website

    • Powder coating can chip and metal can rust

Trapping Kit

    • Cat food - Wet or dry food will work. If using wet food, the gravy varieties tend to last longer and smell more.

    • Canned tuna - Tuna is extra smelly and can lure hard to trap cats. In the summer tuna in oil will last longer and not dry out as quickly as tuna in water.

    • Baby food or Churu meat tubes - These have a strong odor and will attract cats. Good to use small amounts as a trail leading to the trip plate.

    • Rotisserie or fried chicken - Great to use for hard to catch cats!

    • Trap covers - No need to get fancy with pre-made covers, any towel or cut sheet will work. Be sure to wash trap covers after each clinic.

    • Trap liners - Newspaper, cardboard, or puppy pads are all good options. If using cardboard make sure to not cover the trigger plate.

    • Zip ties - Always secure trap doors with zip ties. Carabiner clips or twist-ties can work as well but zip ties are the best and most secure option.

    • Permanent marker and tape - Labeling your trap and trap covers will help you keep track of the cats. Many clinics will have requirements for how to label the traps.

    • Flashlight - Trapping is most often done at night so make sure you are prepared with at least one flashlight. Even better are camping lights that you can position near the traps so you can see better at night.

    • Disposable gloves - Trapping can get messy so come prepared with gloves and cleanup will be much easier.

    • TNR Information - You will encounter neighbors and other caretakers while out trapping so bringing information about TNR and the work you are doing to hand out to people you may meet.